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U.S. News Ranks Mercy #1 in Des Moines Metro

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Mercy Medical Center –Des Moines has been ranked first in Des Moines in U.S. News Media & World Report’s 2011-12 Best Hospitals rankings.

Mercy is one of 720 hospitals ranked by U.S. News Media & World Report among the country’s top hospitals in at least one medical specialty and/or ranked among the best hospitals in its metro area. Mercy’s metro area “high performer” ranking is based on patient care in the specialties of Cancer, Gynecology and Nephrology. Ninety-four metro areas with at least 500,000 residents were included in this year’s study.

“We are truly honored to receive this recognition from U.S. News Media & World Report,” said Mercy President & CEO Dave Vellinga. “Being designated as a ‘high performing’ organization in the areas of Cancer, Gynecology and Nephrology is a validation of the skill and dedication of our physicians, clinicians and support staff. By naming Mercy as the top hospital in the Des Moines metro, U.S. News Media & World Report is acknowledging Mercy’s commitment to providing excellent health care to every patient and family we serve – something that happens here every day in every way.”

The U.S. News Media & World Report Score Card for Cancer Care indicated Mercy Cancer Center patients have access to advanced technologies and treatments as well access to physicians with subspecialty or fellowship training in caring for cancer patients in a critical care setting. Mercy Cancer Center Gynecologic Oncology provides specialized treatment of gynecologic cancers. Cancer patients at Mercy also receive high levels of nursing care.

Mercy Cancer Center was named in 2010 as Iowa’s only participating site in the National Cancer Institute Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP). There are 30 NCCCP sites located in 22 states, dedicated to expanding access to cancer care for the underserved as well as research. Rural residents in Iowa are among the direct beneficiaries of this program. It is estimated that 85 percent of all cancer care is delivered in a community cancer center setting.

The U.S. News Media & World Report regional hospital rankings complement the national rankings by including hospitals with solid performance nearly at the level of nationally ranked institutions. The regional rankings are aimed primarily at consumers whose care may not demand the special expertise found only at a nationally ranked Best Hospital or who may not be willing or able to travel long distances for medical care.